Serving Barnwell County and it's neighbors since 1852
Barnwell School District 45’s last board meeting before consolidation included memories, messages of gratitude, and a few tears.
The board met June 13 for the final time. On July 1, District 45 (BSD45) merged with the Barnwell County Consolidated School District and the Barnwell County Career Center to form the new Barnwell County School District (BCSD).
“There are so many stories and so many legacies,” said BSD45 Superintendent Dr. Crissie Stapleton, who will lead the BCSD.
To honor the legacy of BSD45, the district worked with a professional film crew to produce a documentary. Many current and former employees and board members were interviewed.
“Thank you for your service and contributions to this great district,” said board member Rosey Anderson to both current and former board members, alumni, and employees.
Board Reflections
“I wish everybody could serve on the school board. It’s been an enlightening time of my life. I don’t think you can fully appreciate what it takes as a team,” said board member Rhett Richardson, who has served for 14 years.
He cited bus drivers who get students to school safely, custodians who keep facilities clean, lunchroom staff who feeds everyone, teachers and aides who teach, and coaches who “teach not only sports skills but how to win and lose with dignity.”
Fighting back tears, Richardson said BSD45 has meant so much to his family. His father graduated from Barnwell High and his mother was a teacher and librarian there. He and his own children have all attended BSD45 schools.
“My teachers transformed my life in their own way,” said Richardson of teachers like Louise Mazursky.
Board member Felicia Devore, who has served on the board for seven years, also grew up in BSD45.
“When I started this journey, I just wanted to give back to a district that has meant so much to me and brought so much positivity to my life,” said Devore.
She also teared up as she reflected on the work she and fellow board members did over the years. “We can disagree, but at the end of the day we come back together,” said Devore. “We do it for them, the kids, and we never lost sight of that.”
Devore also thanked all the teachers who’ve made an impact in not only her life, but that of her children and countless others. This includes Joyce Landrum and Kelly Shealy, who were in the audience. She also acknowledged retired educator and coach Carol Massengale who always offered life advice, something Devore has tried to do when she’s coached recreational sports.
Though board member Rosey Anderson didn’t attend BSD45 schools as a student, her children did. She also dedicated 28 of her 44 years in education to Barnwell High.
“Those were 28 great years,” she said.
During her time as an employee, Anderson saw a lot of family connections and got to meet many amazing people. After retiring 10 years ago, she wanted to give back to the district that gave a lot to her. That’s why she ran for school board eight years ago.
Looking Forward
“Most of y’all know I fought it, but I can say now we’re gonna move on. I hope everybody else will too. We’re moving forward,” said Richardson.
Anderson said she is sad to no longer be able to serve on the board, but is happy to help any other way possible.
“We are going to make this the best we can and love on all our kids from all three schools,” said Devore.
The three board members agreed it was a pleasure having Dr. Stapleton lead BSD45 and they are excited she will continue to serve the BCSD.
“You know what needs to be done and do it,” said Anderson. “You know how to deal with people in a compassionate way.”
“I love District 45 but as of now I love the Barnwell County School District just as much,” said Richardson.
